Nicholas Biddle President (since 1822) of the Second Bank of the United States Date of Birth: 08.01.1786 Country: USA

1. Early Life and Family Background
2. Education and Early Career
3. European Travels and Diplomatic Service
4. Return to Philadelphia and Literary Pursuits
5. Marriage and Family Life

Early Life and Family Background

Nicholas Biddle was born in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, into a family with a rich history in the colonial struggle for independence. His great-grandparents immigrated to Pennsylvania and played significant roles in the pre-Revolutionary era. His father, Charles Biddle, was a prominent advocate for American independence and later served as Vice President of Pennsylvania under Benjamin Franklin. His uncle, also named Nicholas, was a distinguished naval officer, and another uncle, Edward Biddle, was a member of the Continental Congress in 1774.

Education and Early Career

Biddle showed exceptional academic promise from a young age. Admitted to the prestigious Philadelphia Academy at an early age, he excelled in his studies and enrolled at the University of Pennsylvania at the age of 10.

When the university hesitated to grant a degree to a child, Biddle transferred to Princeton University, where he graduated with honors at the age of 15 in 1801. His older brother, Thomas Biddle, a war hero of 1812, was fiercely protective of his younger sibling, even willing to engage in a duel to defend his honor.

Before completing his legal studies, Biddle was appointed secretary to John Armstrong, the U.S. Minister to France, and traveled abroad in 1804. He witnessed Napoleon's coronation in Paris and gained valuable experience in international diplomacy and finance when he assisted in the negotiation of the Louisiana Purchase.

European Travels and Diplomatic Service

Biddle's travels extended throughout Europe. In London, he served as secretary to James Monroe and later as diplomatic attaché to the Court of St. James's. During his stay in Cambridge, he partnered with renowned scholars to compare modern Greek with the ancient Homeric dialect, which caught the attention of Monroe.

Return to Philadelphia and Literary Pursuits

In 1807, Biddle returned to Philadelphia and established himself as a respected author on various subjects, primarily art criticism. He became a member of the editorial board of the "Port Folio" magazine, which was published from 1806 to 1823.

Marriage and Family Life

In 1811, Biddle married Jane Margaret Craig, who bore him six children. After the death of the magazine's editor, Joseph Dennie, in 1812, Biddle assumed responsibility for its publication and moved his residence to 7th St. near Spruce Street.